Kid-Friendly Summer Activities in Atlanta

The temperatures are rising, and the cicadas are singing—signaling the start of summer! For families visiting Atlanta, summer is a season of endless adventure. There are countless kid-friendly activities that will fill your summer with fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Cicadas are the world's loudest insects! Their deafening calls are a love song for males to attract mates. Male cicadas have sound boxes in their abdomens that they use to expand and contract a membrane called a tymbal, making a sound. The hotter the day, the louder the male cicadas make their sounds. Cicadas begin their song when the temperature rises above 82.4°F (28°C).

Georgia Aquarium: Endless Summer Splashes

Escape the summer heat and immerse yourself in the wonders of the ocean at Georgia Aquarium. Nowhere else in the U.S. can kids come face-to-face with giant whale sharks, playful dolphins, and colorful coral reefs. From interactive exhibits to immersive shows, there’s something for kids of every age, 8 to 80. Home to the largest indoor aquatic habitat in the world, the Ocean Voyager exhibit houses hundreds of unique aquatic species. With hands-on activities, educational programs, animal encounters, and so much more, Georgia Aquarium promises an unforgettable aquatic summer adventure.

New this summer:
Check out our new dolphin presentation -Destination Dolphin! With new music, visuals, and special surprises you won't want to miss it. Included in your general admission ticket.

Endless Creativity and Fun at LEGO Discovery Center

This summer, kids can dive into a world of imagination at the newly reopened LEGO Discovery Center. After a major overhaul, the ultimate indoor play space is back and better than ever. Fans love the new rides, interactive exhibits, and building stations. The new immersive experience is designed to allow more family learning-through-play activities and will also include a new team of specialist Playmakers and Master Model Builders who will continue to inspire guests through fun, interactive LEGO® Creative Workshops. It’s a perfect destination for endless fun and creativity all summer long!

While it depends on the day, but generally, the LEGO® Discovery Center is quietest after 2 pm.

Connect with Your Wild Side at Zoo Atlanta

Connect with your inner animal at Zoo Atlanta, located just minutes from Downtown and housing more than 1,000 animals from 200 species. Zoo Atlanta offers a range of fun opportunities for kids, including interactive mystery hunts, engaging stage presentations, hands-on learning activities at our Conservation Carts, creating works of nature-based art by our native Bird Garden, and more! Younger kids will love stopping at the Kid Zone, riding the train, and splashing in the water park. Learn more about all of Zoo Atlanta’s children’s activities and plan your summer visit!  

“Together Tastes Better” at the World of Coca-Cola Museum

Located in the same courtyard as Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola Museum showcases a world dedicated to this iconic brand. Kids will love the new immersive Beverage Lab experience as they help create the next sense-ational flavor! You can also snag a family pic with the beloved Coca‑Cola Polar Bear. Taste, smell, and experience interactive exhibits, tastings, and so much more – it all awaits you at the World of Coca-Cola Museum!

Save with Atlanta CityPASS
If you’re visiting Atlanta with family and plan to visit some of these more popular attractions within a small window of time, definitely check out Atlanta CityPASS as it offers savings of up to 44% on admission to five of Atlanta’s top attractions including Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola and Zoo Atlanta.

Learning Meets Play at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta

At the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, learning is always an adventure. A space completely dedicated to teaching young children through the power of play. Ignite your child’s curiosity and creativity with interactive exhibits, immersive experiences, live entertainment, and interactive workshops. With special summer programs and themed events, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta is the perfect destination for kids to explore, discover, and create. The new Animationland is also now open through the summer – kids will be immersed in the world of animation as they learn about storyboarding, sketching, stop-motion movie making, and more through an interactive journey to create stories using art and science.

Civil & Human Rights Center, Where Inspiration Becomes KIDSPIRATION

The Civil and Human Rights Center is celebrating its 10th anniversary this June! In celebration of this milestone, the center will be hosting a month full of immersive events to educate, entertain, and spark dialogue on justice and rights. Kidspiration also kicks off this summer – children ages 3–12 will be introduced to the principles of civic engagement and voting, inspiring them to see themselves as future changemakers through a captivating short play where jungle animals elect their new leader. This series will be available the third weekend of every month this summer!

College Football Hall of Fame is the Perfect Off-Season Activity

Embark on a legendary journey this summer at the College Football Hall of Fame. Become part of the game while you explore captivating interactive exhibits. This museum showcases the heart, pageantry, and traditions of college football. August 2024 marks 10 years of football, fandom, and fun in downtown Atlanta. Get ready for an epic season-long celebration with a fan fest and exciting new experiences for the whole family.

Father's Day at the Hall
This summer brings a field of fun - kids can celebrate Father's Day at the Hall on Sunday, June 16. Dads get free admission, a Home Depot gift card, and all of the fun and exciting college football you can handle.

Join Music and Theatre for the Very Young

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra presents a brand new Music for the Very Young session in partnership with The Music Class. These Family Classes are a research-based education program designed to tap into the musical potential of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Also available this summer, your family can enjoy a performance from Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Concert Series. Members of the orchestra bring your favorite stories to life in this music meets storytelling series. Parents can also join in the interactive fun!  

Theatre for the Very Young, presented by Alliance Theater, is designed for children ages 0-5 and their parents. This engaging and interactive experience sparks kids’ creative thinking. By making the child audience a part of the story, the goal is to create a space where creativity and personalities can shine.

Reconnect with Nature at the Chattahoochee or Dunwoody Nature Centers

Gather the family on an outdoor adventure to explore the local Chattahoochee and Dunwoody Nature Centers. With a 127-acre educational facility that lies adjacent to the Chattahoochee River in Roswell, the Chattahoochee Nature Center focuses on engaging families in educational outreach through the use of flora and fauna and a variety of programs and experiences. Dunwoody Nature Center also provides opportunities for families to explore and play in the great outdoors. With 22 acres of forest, playground, and trails, the center inspires the love of nature and cultivates environmental understanding and stewardship. Whether it’s a family hike or camping adventure, kids can jump, swing, teetertotter, splash, hike, and play as they learn more about their local ecosystems.

Let Art at Creativity Soar with Toddler Thursdays at The High

This summer, bring your family to Toddler Thursdays at The High Museum of Art. Engage your child’s creativity and explore monthly topics with related artwork, self-guided tours, and new art-making activities each week. Designed for kids ages 15 months to 3 years old.

Can’t make it on Thursdays?
Stop by on the first Saturday of each month for Toddler Saturdays!

It’s a Neighborhood Just for Kids: (INK)

The Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK) is a kid-centric “museum” designed to immerse children in a world of interactive play and imagination. It features exhibits that mimic a real neighborhood, such as GrandPappy Airlines, the Medical Clinic, the Family Playhouse, the Gainesville Radiology Clinic, the Dentist office, the bank, and so much more. Kids get to use their creativity and imagination as they explore the museum. 

Get Slimmed at the SlooMoo Institute

Who doesn’t love slime? The Sloomoo Institute utilizes the creative word of slime through sensory play. Their mission: embrace the power of satisfying using all your senses. Play in the room of Slimey Mirrors and transform into a slime creature, or walk over 350 gallons of slime at Lake SlooMoo! Visit the Sloomooverse, create your own slime, or get slimmed at SlooMoo Falls! The possibilities for fun are endless at the SlooMoo Institute.

Playing with slime can help children develop fine motor skills, cognitive skills, and social skills. It can also stimulate creativity and have a calming effect.

All Aboard The Locomotives

Explore a variety of train cars and vehicles from throughout history at The Southeastern Railway Museum or the Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotion History. Both museums feature numerous train cars and other vehicles to explore or ride in, making them great destinations for tots. There are areas to eat, host parties, and learn about the history of transportation. The Jolley Education Center at the Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotion History offers numerous hands-on and interactive exhibits that are fun for the entire family.

It’s a Summer of Thrills at Six-Flags Over Georgia

Atlanta’s iconic theme park offers a variety of amusements, games, and exciting rides for kids of all ages. Thrill seekers will love the variety of high-energy rides that twist, drop, and zoom, while smaller kids will find rides perfectly tailored to them. Six Flags Over Georgia also offers a variety of special and seasonal events. No matter your age, you will enjoy visiting Hurricane Harbor Water Park during the summer, where you can float, slide, and play in the cooling water.

Coming this summer:
A first-of-its-kind, the Ultra Surf Coaster! Be sure to check it out.

Conclusion: Dive into a Summer of Fun

Atlanta is truly a treasure trove of kid-friendly summer activities. Whether you’re marveling at Georgia Aquarium’s marine life, exploring the wonders of nature at the Dunwoody Nature Center, or unleashing your creativity at the Children’s Museum, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had and memories to be made. So gather your family and dive into a summer of fun in Atlanta!

Spring Break in Atlanta: 5 Unmissable Experiences

The perfect guide to planning an unforgettable spring break.

Georgia Aquarium – Where the Ocean Meets the Skyline

Skip the sandy sandwiches, sunburn, and mid-day thunderstorms and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Rain or shine, our fully indoor experience ensures a perfect day of exploration and excitement. Experience eight captivating galleries showcasing thousands of fascinating marine animals, including remarkable sharks and playful otters – it’s like eight vacation destinations all in one place. Immerse yourself in the magic of our daily animal presentations or meet them up close in our animal encounters. Where else can you swim with whale sharks, play with dolphins, AND dance with sea lions? Georgia Aquarium promises a journey filled with discovery and awe-inspiring moments. 

For kids ages 5-10 years old, check out our new Spring Break Camp H2O! From April 1 through 5, campers will spend the week engaged in fun and exciting activities. They will discover interesting facts about our aquatic friends and explore the vast ocean ecosystem. All Aquarium galleries and presentations are included.​

Make this Spring Break one to remember – dive into the extraordinary at Georgia Aquarium!

Attend the Atlanta Science Festival 

It’s our favorite annual Atlanta spring tradition! The Atlanta Science Festival is an annual celebration of the world-class learning and STEM career opportunities in metro Atlanta. Engineered by Science Atlanta and 80+ community partners – including Georgia Aquarium. Featuring 100+ engaging events covering a range of science topics geared towards all ages. This festival is committed to expanding access to science learning in the Atlanta area. Take part in all the fun happening March 9-23, 2024. 

Don’t miss Georgia Aquarium’s event – Saving the Seas, on Saturday, March 16. Dive into the world of marine research and conservation to experience firsthand what it’s like to be a marine conservationist. As a leader in ocean conservation, Georgia Aquarium will be hosting a presentation focusing on different conservation projects, from protecting our coral reefs to the re-establishment of zebra sharks to protecting key species. Explore threats facing our environment through interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities based on Aquarium-wide initiatives. Tickets are required for this event for both Aquarium members and non-members. 

Check out the festival’s online schedule and register for these exciting events! Stay up to date on all things #ATLSciFest by following @ATLSciFest.

Head to the Atlanta Botanical Garden

Spring has sprung at the Atlanta Botanical Garden! With over 30 acres of outdoor gardens, it’s nestled in the heart of Midtown Atlanta. You don’t want to miss the annual spring Orchid Daze and Atlanta Blooms, celebrating thousands of beautiful, fragrant orchids and tulips in bloom. 

Are they looking for some outdoor, family-friendly activities for spring break? Check out Spring Break Science Camp, where kids can experiment with plant engineering, adaptations, and seasonal changes. The Garden also offers Spring Break Family Fun – the whole family can partake in seasonal activities like storybook time and gardening activities for free with garden admission.

Cheer on Your Favorite Atlanta Teams at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

With a capacity of 93,000 fans, feel Atlanta’s pride and support one of the city’s biggest sports teams. 

As Atlanta becomes the hub for US soccer, join the legendary Atlanta United FC fans for a match and experience The Golden Spike. The Home Depot Backyard is also a hub for home game tailgating! Check out their calendar to see all the upcoming events.

Experience the History of America’s Game at The College Football Hall of Fame

The College Football Hall of Fame aims to inspire and entertain by celebrating the passion and traditions of college football and its greatest players and coaches. Immerse yourself in college football history this spring break and experience the new Microsoft Gaming Lounge. Described as fun, interactive, educational, and entertaining – this new exhibit allows attendees to play video football games on Xbox systems. The Microsoft Gaming Lounge’s opening is timely as a new NCAA football video game will return in 2024 after nearly a decade offline. 

Save on your Atlanta Spring Break experiences with CityPASS. This one pass gives you discounted access to five of Atlanta’s family-friendly downtown attractions.

Saluting Service

Dive into the Heart of Our Military Salute Program Through the Eyes of Our Dedicated Staff

Saluting Service

By Jason Bush, Manager, Military Salute Program at Georgia Aquarium

How My Journey Began

I grew up in South Florida, doing anything and everything in and around the water that I possibly could – from fishing, skiing, and kayaking, to snorkeling, surfing, and saltwater aquarium keeping. I was quite fond of the ocean and marine life. So much so, that I played a valuable role in getting a grant from the school board to have saltwater aquariums in my high school oceanography and marine biology classrooms. I was even the sole caretaker of them. 

I joined the United States Marine Corps in August of 1998 and stayed on active duty until August 2003, with an additional two years as an inactive reserve. During that time, I participated in several deployments, including Operation Determined Response when the USS Cole was attacked in 2000, Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003 during the invasion of Iraq, and the Battle of Nasiriyah.

My passion for the ocean started when I was young. I always wanted to dive as a kid but could never afford it. While on my first deployment in Thailand in 2000, I opted to obtain my open-water certification and my love for diving began. Later I obtained Dive Master, Public Safety Diver, Rescue Diver, Underwater Criminal Investigator, and several other certifications. I am currently working on my instructor certification. 

Service After Serving

Like many veterans returning from combat with invisible wounds, I too, returned a different person with wounds that cut deep, but without truly realizing it or plain refusing to. In 2009, I was referred to the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), where I attended an outdoor rehabilitative mental health retreat. After nearly six years of feeling lost, this is where I realized I was not alone and found the hope I was missing.

I continued attending events, connecting with fellow veterans and resources that would give me the ability to accept nothing but the best of myself again. I fought to find that new normal and get to a place where I could give back and help fellow veterans who were also struggling. In 2013, a position opened up at WWP, facilitating the very retreat that was the first turning point in my life post-war. I would remain with WWP for the next 10 years, hosting 10-14 retreats per year for both veterans and couples. My time with WWP would conclude on the outreach team, where I was fortunate enough to work with Georgia Aquarium’s Military Salute both in-house and in the field.

I wholeheartedly believe in the holistic healing nature can bring us if we allow it to, especially the water. The peace I feel underwater is almost indescribable. I want to share this experience with every veteran I can dealing with both the visible and invisible wounds of war. Diving is something that can be adaptable to any disability, making it a healthy coping mechanism for a wide range of injuries and ailments.

Saluting Military Service 

In early 2023, I was told that the Military Salute Manager position at Georgia Aquarium would soon become available. Having seen this incredible program in action first-hand through WWP, I deeply believed in its efficacy and the benefits that it gave to all participants and wanted to help this program reach new heights. It was a huge leap of faith when I was offered the position, but I believed in myself and this program. I accepted the challenge and started my adventure as Military Salute Manager in April 2023. It will be challenging to take the program to the next level. But the result will be worth the effort if it means that the program can stretch beyond the walls of the Aquarium – and hopefully the state of Georgia – reaching as many veterans as possible.

When did the Military Salute Program begin?

  • Georgia Aquarium’s Military Salute program first began as part of the Veterans Immersion Program back in 2005, when the first guests to participate in the Journey with Gentle Giants swim and dive program were a group of wounded veterans.

Who does it serve?

  • Military Salute currently serves wounded, ill, and/or injured veterans along with their families, Gold Star Families, and several non-veteran groups, such as Children Healthcare of Atlanta and Shepherd Center patients.

What is its purpose?

  • The purpose of Military Salute is to introduce and promote the healing nature of the underwater world to our nation’s wounded, ill, and injured heroes and their families by engaging in camaraderie, recreation, education, service, and conservation efforts through programs within the Aquarium and programs held outside our walls.

Unlocking the Healing Power of our Ocean in Key Largo 

For the first time in 2023, our veteran’s field program traveled to Key Largo, FL, to work with the Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF). I, along with members from our dive immersion, dive safety, and dive operations teams were joined by a group of wounded, injured, and/or ill veterans. These participants joined us through organizations we currently partner with, such as the Wounded Warrior Project, Patriots for Disabled Divers, and H20 who help connect us with potential program candidates.

Weather is always an unpredictable factor when diving. Fortunately, CRF has plenty of projects to engage in both in and out of water. During our trip in August, we participated in inspecting and cleaning man-made coral trees within the in-water nursery. These platforms provide a space for the staghorn corals to grow until they reach a size suitable for transplantation to local reefs. During another trip down to Key Largo in December, we were unable to dive due to weather conditions. But we worked on land building a dozen coral trees used specifically for growing boulder corals. We then took that newfound knowledge and utilized it to help us identify the corals amongst the reefs that had been planted by CRF. Additionally, we were able to dive in a few reef areas and recovered fishing lines and various tackles found attached to reef structures.

Check out our veteran’s field program trip to Key Largo, FL.

The Future of Military Salute

Currently, our veteran’s field program has funds for an annual trip that focuses on education, conservation, and service. We hope to expand and include additional trips in the future, partnering with marine sanctuaries and other organizations whose mission aligns with that of Georgia Aquarium and Military Salute.

The outdoors, nature, and the underwater world are extremely healing for those who struggle with visible and invisible wounds. This program is especially meaningful because it provides, not only, a unique and healing environment for veterans within the Aquarium, but also offers opportunities outside the Aquarium to participate in missions of service through engaging underwater conservation projects. This gives veterans purpose on a larger scale that can be hard to find post-active duty. Engaging in service again is often the key ingredient in the healing process for our veterans. At the very core of this program, is the opportunity for veterans and their families to reconnect, re-engage, and heal alongside like-minded individuals. This is our mission and what we aim to provide for years to come.

Personal Passion

All unique programs under the Military Salute are important to me because my passion is rooted in actively serving my fellow wounded veterans and their families. There’s no greater honor for me than being a part of helping them to find their “new normal”. Helping their healing begin or continuing to utilize this unique and holistic approach. The reason I am here today is because of individuals and organizations over the past 20 years who have encouraged and pushed me to connect with my inner strength, not give up on myself, and strive to find that new normal so that I can live my life intentionally with purpose and fulfillment.

As an organization, we have the ability and means to change lives. Not by re-creating the wheel, but by being another spoke of support in the lives of the men, women, and families that have given so much so that we can enjoy the freedoms we do today.

A Look At 2024 – Georgia Aquarium Experiences

Plan Your 2024 Trip to Georgia Aquarium: A Look at What’s Ahead

A new year brings exciting new opportunities that promise a year filled with awe-inspiring events, remarkable exhibitions, and unforgettable experiences at Georgia Aquarium. Let’s dive into what’s in store at the Aquarium in 2024 as you plan a year’s worth of visits with your Resident Pass:

Spectacular Sea-sonal Sights:

Experience the excitement of our seasonal events! Every weeknight throughout June, soak up the rhythmic rays of summer Sound Waves Music Series, where live music meets the ocean. Sound Waves is more than live music, with a mission to celebrate local Atlanta artists while you connect with the ocean’s magnificent species.

In October, you don’t want to miss the spine-tingling excitement of Haunted Seas! See as the Aquarium transforms into the site of a spooky shipwreck. This fully immersive experience brings new characters, tales, sights, and trick-or-treats in a one-of-a-kind Aquarium experience you won’t want to miss.

And, of course, there’s no better way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year than during Holidays at Georgia Aquarium. Experience the magic of the winter season by taking in the sights and sounds of our completely transformed atrium with festive music, winter-inspired projections, daily lighting of our tree, a holiday-themed dolphin presentation, and the best photo-op with Santa in Atlanta! We cannot wait to see you throughout the year at all these spectacular events.

New Year, New Exhibit! – Get an Exclusive Sneak Peek:

Be one of the first to experience our latest exhibit! Opening this summer, our new Explorers Cove is sure to captivate guests of all ages with new hands-on experiences. This new exhibit will feature two expansive, interactive touch pools where guests can engage with sharks, rays, guitarfish, and sturgeon like never before. It will also house a captivating marsh environment for young explorers to experience the wetland ecosystem up close. Finally, guests use immersive technology to create their own species by drawing a digital animal and watch as it swims and interacts on a giant video wall with other animal creations. 

Uncover a new experience, new species, and a new opportunity to learn about the wonders of our world’s aquatic wildlife. Want to be the first to know all the updates on this new exhibit? Be sure to follow our social channels @GeorgiaAquarium and subscribe to our Newsletter for all the latest Aquarium news! 

Dive Into our Reimagined Dolphin Presentation:

This summer, we are excited to unveil our fin-tasticly rejuvenated dolphin presentation! Witness the grace, intelligence, and sheer splendor of these incredible creatures, as they dazzle you with their agility and charm. ‘Destination: Dolphin’ will explore the world of bottlenose dolphins and the pivotal role they play in understanding the health of our world’s oceans. This experience is fully immersive – with upbeat music, lighting, and effects – and a special surprise for those who dare to sit in the soak zone. It’s an experience that’ll leave you in awe of the ocean’s most beloved ambassadors. 

Enhance Your Experience:

No visit is the same at Georgia Aquarium – elevate your adventure by exploring our array of add-on experiences. Go Behind the Seas with an exclusive tour, where you’ll glimpse the inner workings of the Aquarium. Experience the joy of meeting your favorite animal up close and personal during an unforgettable animal encounter. Drink, dine, and dance the night away at our next Sips Under the Sea. Prefer to unwind while surrounded by the soothing sights of the sea? Grab a friend for a Wellness by the Water class and namaste with manta rays. Create selfie-worthy moments and foster a deeper connection with our world’s oceans during your next visit. 

Revitalized River Scout:

Anticipation has been building for the grand reveal of River Scout’s renovation in early spring 2024, where the spotlight will soon shine on the captivating African tigerfish. This revamped freshwater gallery promises an immersive experience, featuring a diverse array of species like Asian small-clawed otters, giant African puffers, and the fearsome piranhas, alongside eel-like Ropefish. As rainforest meets river, experience River Scout revitalized into a vibrant freshwater ecosystem. 

A Downtown Gem: 

Conveniently located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia Aquarium is the perfect complement to your day out. Whether you’re heading to a sporting event, concert, or exploring other attractions, maximize your visit by adding the Aquarium to your itinerary. Frequent visitor? Pay for a day and come back all year with a 2024 Resident Pass (some blackout dates apply). Planning a weekend getaway? Check out CityPass to save on Atlanta’s top attractions, including Georgia Aquarium. Immerse yourself in the ocean’s wonders and make your day an adventure to remember.

 

Prepare for a year of wonder, excitement, and unparalleled experiences at Georgia Aquarium. Become stewards of our world’s precious ocean while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Your next adventure awaits at Georgia Aquarium! What will you discover?

All of these exciting enhancements are included in your general admission ticket or Resident Pass.

Georgia Aquarium Receives First Gold Certification from WheelChariot

WheelChariot is a platform focused on improving accessibility for people with disabilities.

Georgia Aquarium has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Gold Certified organization recognized by WheelChariot, a pioneering platform dedicated to promoting accessibility for people with disabilities. This distinctive certification underscores the Aquarium’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, making it a leading accessible destination in the Atlanta metro area.

 

WheelChariot is a local Georgia-based organization, founded by graduates from the Georgia Institute of Technology, whose focus is forming a more inclusive society where everyone has equal access to goods and services. WheelChariot’s platform provides businesses with the tools and insights needed to enhance accessibility and foster an environment of inclusion. By providing a unique opportunity for businesses to receive first-hand feedback, engage with and learn from a vibrant community dedicated to improving accessibility; WheelChariot helps businesses, like Georgia Aquarium, improve their accommodations based on real user experiences.

 

“We at WheelChariot are deeply grateful and immensely proud of Georgia Aquarium’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity,” said Gabriel Jones, CEO of WheelChariot. “Their decision to trust in a homegrown initiative spearheaded by Georgia entrepreneurs speaks volumes of their dedication not only to superior guest experiences but also to fostering a supportive local community. As passionate advocates for Atlanta, we dream of seeing our beloved city become a leading hub for accessible tourism. Georgia Aquarium’s trailblazing achievement in receiving the first WheelChariot Gold Certification not only marks a significant milestone in their journey towards inclusivity but also sets an exemplary model for others. We fervently hope that their leadership and commitment inspire many more establishments to join us in this vital endeavor. Together, we can make Atlanta a beacon for accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that every visitor, regardless of ability, enjoys the rich, diverse experiences our city has to offer.”

 

Through the WheelChariot for Business initiative, establishments like Georgia Aquarium not only have the opportunity to highlight their commendable efforts, but also gain public-facing certification. This certification allows businesses to proudly promote their commitment to inclusivity, assuring visitors of their dedication to providing accessible experiences for all.

 

In 2018, Georgia Aquarium became the first aquarium designated as a Certified Autism Center.

Last fall, it was named KultureCity’s Sensory Inclusive Venue of the Year for training more than 80% of staff and volunteers on compassionately and effectively working with guests on the autism spectrum and providing sensory features for those who need or want them. Georgia Aquarium is also honored to have hosted more than 2,900 military personnel and guests who have been physically, emotionally, or mentally wounded through their Veterans Immersion Program, offering swims or dives 365 days a year. Now, being recognized as the first WheelChariot Gold Certified organization the Aquarium’s hopes to continue expanding efforts to make their facility accessible to all by setting the example of best practices. This Gold Certification recognizes Georgia Aquarium’s exceptional efforts to make their facility accessible to all through the wide range of accessibility measures, including but not limited to: providing wheelchairs, golf carts, tactile and specialized exhibit information, and a sensory room. The Aquarium’s encounter programs are also all designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring every guest the opportunity to participate in these experiences.

 

“We are honored to be the first organization to receive Gold Certification from WheelChariot,” said Sam Herman, director of guest programs at Georgia Aquarium. “Every year, we see millions of guests come through our doors. Our commitment to accessibility extends beyond the basics, demonstrating our passion for providing a memorable and enriching experience for every visitor. Georgia Aquarium’s mission is to inspire awareness and preservation of our aquatic world, and we believe that every individual, regardless of their abilities, should have the opportunity to be a part of this mission.”

 

Georgia Aquarium’s journey toward achieving WheelChariot Gold Certification reflects on their incredible dedication to creating a more accessible and inclusive environment for guests with disabilities. With this new achievement, Georgia Aquarium aims to set a new standard for accessibility in the metro Atlanta community.

 

Together, WheelChariot and Georgia Aquarium are taking a significant step forward in setting a higher standard for accessibility in Atlanta, and hope this certification serves as an inspiration for other businesses looking to promote accessibility and inclusivity.

 

To learn more about Georgia Aquarium’s accessibility offerings, please visit georgiaaquarium.org.

 

For more information about WheelChariot, please visit wheelchariot.io.

 

For photos and videos, please see below:

Photos

Video


For further information or media inquiries, please contact:

Gabriel Jones

CEO, WheelChariot

(678) 730-4778

gabriel@wheelchariot.io

 

Hannah Hardwick

Public Relations Specialist, Georgia Aquarium

hhardwick@georgiaaquarium.org

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